Circulating cell-free DNA in sickle cell disease: Is it a potentially useful biomarker?

Abstract

Context.-Vascular occlusion in sickle cell disease causes increased levels of plasma cell-free DNA as a result of cell death and tissue damage. Objectives.-This study investigates plasma cell-free DNA concentrations in sickle cell disease patients, and aims at exploring the significance of plasma cell-free DNA as a potential biomarker in predicting its complications. Design.-Plasma cell-free DNA levels were measured using real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction to quantitatively measure b-globin gene in blood samples from 57 sickle cell disease patients with acute vasoocclusive crisis, 42 patients in steady state, 16 individuals with sickle cell trait, and 40 healthy controls. Results.-Plasma cell-free DNA level was significantly elevated in samples from patients with acute vasoocclusive crisis when compared with those in steady state (P